Maguires ‘Son of the Stewards’ – Protectors of the Book of Armagh
From at least the 14th-century onwards, custody of the Book of Armagh was entrusted to the Mac an Mhaoir (MacMoyer) clan–an appropriate name considering that it translates to ‘son of…
Rivalry of the O’Rourkes and the O’Reillys for the Kindom of Breifne
The area now called County Cavan was officially created as such in 1579. For centuries prior to the colonial conquest of Ireland, these lands once made up part of the…
“Loved their bold Phelim Brady, the Bard of Armagh”
In the tapestry of Irish history, woven with the threads of struggle, rebellion, and resilience, the figure of Patrick Donnelly emerges as a vibrant emblem of cultural and religious resistance.…
The Collar of Morann: A Missing Symbol of Justice in Modern Ireland?
This article ventures into the heart of Irish folklore and history, spotlighting Morann and his legendary Collar—a beacon of justice and wisdom once featured on the emblem of the Department…
5 Steps To Start Thinking In Irish Today
To think in Irish, rather than merely translating from it, requires immersive strategies that align more closely with how the language conceptualizes the world. This process involves a few key…
Macha the Red – Ireland’s Female High-King
Macha was daughter of Aedh Ruadh (Ayrooa), or Red Hugh, who was at this time in an agreement to share the sovereignty of Ireland in rotation every seven-years with another…
Relight My Fire! Returning to Uisneach in 2024
I'm jumping over fires with excitement to announce I will be returning to speak at Uisneach Fire Festival this May 11th, 2024. This will be my third time attending the…
The Irish Roots of Middle-Earth: Discover How J.R.R Tolkien Was Inspired By Ireland’s Ancient Myth, Language, and Landscapes
J.R.R. Tolkien, the literary genius behind "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," harboured a profound connection with Ireland that echoed in both his literary creations and personal experiences.…
A Very Irish Christmas – 9 Irish Christmas Traditions You Can Follow This Year
In Ireland, Christmas is not just a season; it's a tapestry of customs woven with ancient myths, modern delights, and a warm sense of community. These nine traditions showcase the…
Sick Maintenance: Injury, Restorative Justice, and Legal Liability in Early Ireland
The legal system of Ireland before the arrival of the Normans was known as the Brehon Law. It was a complex and evolved system of law that reflected the intricacies…